A Magic BulletIn response to "Shifting to a Sustainable Future," my
article in the February/March Bar Bulletin, Larry Edelman suggests
that individual choices are likely not "to be of any consequence" because "achieving
sustainability is systemic."

Before dismissing individual responsibility so glibly, we should
examine the magic bullet of "systemic change." What does that really
mean? No one knows. We do know it will require not only political will, but
political consensus, which assures that it will be insufficient. In fact,
we have waited decades for the political will to seriously address degradation
of the earth that seems so pronounced today.

Moreover, effective systemic change must result in per capita
reduction in a) use of energy and resources, and b) degradation of air, water,
soil and ecosystems. In my article, I was simply describing easy ways to start
that process today.

As a small example, in Portland commuters shifting to bikes
are not waiting for systemic change. Now totaling about 6 percent of all commuters,
they are effecting that change and becoming role models for all of us.

Having said this, I would agree with Larry that the window of
opportunity is closing rapidly. The need for fundamental change is urgent.
I would add that lawyers are ideally suited to play a pivotal role.

We are nimble and not burdened with the inertia found in the
public policy arena. We know how the system works. Any one of us can form
an intention today and be an enormous force for change tomorrow.

Dick Roy, co-founder,
Center for Earth Leadership Portland

Grateful for the EffortsThe executive committee of the OSB Diversity Section (DSEC)
would like to acknowledge the work of all parties who expended their time
and efforts to reach a consensus on the MCLE requirement for elimination of
bias credits. DSEC is grateful for their cumulative efforts and the Board
of Governors for approving the new program. The Oregon Supreme Court approved
the following:

Change the name of the requirement from "elimination of
bias" to "access to justice."

Require members to complete three access to justice credit hours
in alternate reporting periods.

Require new admittees to take an introductory course approved
by the bar in their first reporting period.

Allow access to justice credit hours over the required amount
to be carried forward as general credits.

The DSEC specifically would like to recognize the contributions
of its members Judge Richard Baldwin and chairpersons Mary Crawford and Bob
Joondeph. DSEC also would like to recognize Tim Gerking for his leadership
in the Policy and Governance Committee and Gary Georgeff and OSB President
Rick Yugler for their work and efforts in reaching a resolution.

Our hope is that the new program will increase the professionalism
of all bar members and will aid attorneys in meeting the needs of Oregon’s
diverse and ever changing population.